Cindy H. Reed is a New York–born author, blogger, and creative entrepreneur. Born in Brooklyn and raised in Amityville, Long Island, Cindy has built a literary and creative career grounded in authenticity, reflection, and personal expression. She is a contributing author to God’s Joy Fruit (March 2020) and the author of Diesel: The Dittleberry’s Diva (April 2019) and Twisted Reality (August 2016). Her poetry and writing have also been published in three anthologies archived in the National Library of Congress: Diamonds and Pearls (1997), Best Poems of 1998, and Timeless Voices (2006).

In 2014, Cindy was accepted into Princeton Theological Seminary and was selected as a featured reader at the FCAC Literary Expo in Washington, DC. Her work and story have been highlighted through interviews and features on Sista’s Place Entertainment Blog and Maya’s Blog Showcase, and she was a featured guest speaker for the January 2016 empowerment call, “No More Talking, Just Action.” That same year, she was also spotlighted in the article “Black Girl’s Rock.” Cindy has contributed her writing to online magazines and served as a guest contributor for Pearly’s BlogSpot. In December 2025, Cindy was inducted into Marquis Who’s Who.

Beyond writing, Cindy is a dedicated entrepreneur and creative brand owner. She is the founder of Simply Cindy Blog and the owner of several online businesses, including Creations by Cindy’s Hands, Cindy’s Simple Pleasures, Petals by Cindy, and Second Time Around. A graduate of Hunter Business School in Medford, New York, Cindy is also a proud mother of two. Through her writing, blogging, and creative ventures, Cindy continues to inspire through storytelling, creativity, and purpose.

Connect with Cindy H. Reed:

Instagram: Creations by Cindy’s Hands

• Blog: Simply Cindy Blog
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-r-b3347541
• Amazon Author Page: Amazon Author: Cindy H. Reed
• Pinterest: pinterest.com/cindyhr1
• Tumblr: Cindyhr1 https://www.tumblr.com/cindyhr1

Worldwide Women’s Association Member Cindy H. Reed is looking forward to networking with you.

Jennifer Faris Jones Leads Regional Tourism Growth as Executive Director of the Mecosta County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Mecosta County, MI — Jennifer Faris Jones serves as the Executive Director of the Mecosta County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), where she leads strategic regional tourism development efforts, strengthens cross-county partnerships, and promotes Mecosta County and its surrounding communities as vibrant destinations to visit, live, and grow.

In her role, Jennifer is focused on fostering collaboration across counties and organizations to drive economic vitality, enhance visitor engagement, and ensure long-term community sustainability. She believes thriving regions are built on strong relationships and purposeful partnerships.

“When communities, partners, and visitors connect with purpose, everyone grows,” Jones said.

Jennifer brings extensive hospitality and management experience to the CVB. Her background includes managing a privately owned biker campground as well as overseeing the City of Scottville’s municipal campgrounds. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in accounting and human resources and has studied at both Ferris State University and Baker College.

Her roots run deep in West Michigan. Jennifer grew up in Hersey and Chase, graduated from Reed City, and raised her children in Big Rapids before spending nearly a decade in Trenary. Her lifelong commitment to service includes volunteering as a firefighter and supporting organizations such as 4-H and Girl Scouts, along with numerous other community initiatives over the years.

Jennifer currently serves as Vice President of the Reed City Chamber, sits on the Big Rapids Regional Chamber board, and remains actively involved in Rotary. Professionally, she is engaged at the local, state, and national levels as a member of the Worldwide Women’s Association, Destinations International, the Michigan Society of Association Executives, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association, among other professional and community organizations, including local downtown and business associations.

Under her leadership, the CVB is expanding regional partnerships and strengthening collaborative initiatives. She is actively working with Crossroads Recreation Connection and the Lake County Chamber of Commerce and looks forward to developing future partnerships with the Newaygo Tourism Council. Her work is driven by both professional dedication and personal passion.

“My motivation is deeply rooted in my love for my grandchildren,” Jones shared. “Improving today is about building a better tomorrow — creating a region where future generations choose to stay, grow, and thrive.”

Outside of her professional work, Jennifer enjoys motorcycles, kayaking, camping, and attending live concerts. A passionate supporter of the arts and community events, she can often be found at local festivals and performances, championing the people and experiences that make the region vibrant.

For more information, contact:

Jennifer Faris Jones
Executive Director
Mecosta County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Email: jennifer@bigrapids.org

Worldwide Women’s Association member Jennifer Jones – Faris can be found on the directory where she is looking forward to networking with you.

Tracy Thurber

Vice President, Consumer Lending
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union
🔗 http://linkedin.com/in/tracy-thurber-5475ba7/

Tracy Thurber is Vice President of Consumer Lending at SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, bringing more than 30 years of progressive leadership experience within the organization. A seasoned credit union executive, Tracy is widely respected for her expertise in consumer lending strategy, operational excellence, and people-centered leadership.

In her current role, Tracy oversees consumer loan operations, strategy, and performance, with a strong focus on automation, artificial intelligence execution, and service strategies that enhance the Member experience. She previously served as Vice President of Branch Operations, where she led branch network teams and ensured consistent, high-quality service delivery across locations.

Tracy’s career at SchoolsFirst reflects a deep understanding of both frontline operations and enterprise-level strategy. Beginning as a Branch Manager, she advanced through leadership roles by consistently driving operational improvements, developing strong leaders, and supporting organizational growth in a rapidly evolving financial services landscape.

A passionate servant leader, Tracy is deeply committed to mentorship, collaboration, and empowering others to succeed. She is especially dedicated to advancing women in leadership and building inclusive, high-performing teams that support Members through every stage of their financial journey.

Experience Highlights

• 31 years at SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, progressing from Branch Manager to executive leadership
• Vice President of Consumer Lending, overseeing consumer loan operations, strategy, and performance
• Former Vice President of Branch Operations, leading branch teams and Member experience delivery
• Proven success in operational improvement, leadership development, and organizational growth
• Strong advocate for mentorship, collaboration, and women in leadership

Worldwide Women’s Association member Tracy Thurber can be found on the directory where she is looking forward to networking with you.